The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR Made a Bold First Impression
Game cameras have become an indispensable tool for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and even those looking to secure their property. After years of relying on older models, I decided it was time to upgrade, leading me to the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR. I was hoping for a reliable, easy-to-use camera that wouldn’t break the bank.
My old camera was unreliable and chewed through batteries like candy. I needed something with better battery life and improved image quality, especially at night. Upon unboxing the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR, I was pleasantly surprised by its compact size and sturdy feel.
While considering options, I looked at similar cameras from Bushnell and Moultrie. Ultimately, the Wildgame stood out due to its advertised image resolution and attractive price point. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.
The initial impression was positive, leaning towards cautiously optimistic. The build seemed solid for a camera in this price range, and the setup looked straightforward. Time would tell if the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR could deliver on its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR to the Test
First Use Experience
I first deployed the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR on a well-traveled deer trail near my hunting blind. The goal was to monitor deer activity leading up to the season. I tested it in typical early autumn conditions: mild temperatures and occasional light rain.
The camera was surprisingly easy to set up, only taking a few minutes to mount and configure. The intuitive menu system was a refreshing change from my old camera. After the first few days, I checked the images, and was immediately impressed with the clarity and brightness of the daytime photos.
Nighttime images, however, were a different story. While the 40 nearly invisible 940nm infrared LEDs provided decent illumination, the images were grainier than expected. There were also some false triggers, likely caused by small animals or swaying vegetation, but overall, I was pleased with the initial performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR has proven to be relatively reliable. I’ve moved it to different locations, including a food plot and a scrape line. It’s endured a couple of heavier rainstorms without any apparent water damage.
The camera has held up well, with no noticeable wear and tear on the housing. The battery life, while not exceptional, is significantly better than my previous camera. I’ve been using lithium batteries, which seem to provide the best performance.
Cleaning the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my old camera, this one is a breeze to maintain. While not perfect, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR has largely met my expectations for a budget-friendly game camera.
Breaking Down the Features of Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR
Specifications
- 20 MP Image Resolution: The camera captures images at a resolution of 20 megapixels. This is a good starting resolution for decent image quality and the ability to zoom in on pictures.
- 40 Nearly Invisible 940nm Infrared LEDs: This feature provides nighttime illumination without spooking game. The 940nm wavelength is designed to be low-glow.
- Trigger Speed: The camera’s trigger speed is not explicitly listed, and this can impact image capture. A slower trigger can result in missed shots of moving animals.
- Battery Life: Specific battery life isn’t documented by the manufacturer, so testing and battery type are important. Varying temperature or settings can also affect performance.
- Detection Range: Detection range is not specified, limiting the user’s knowledge of camera reach. Shorter ranges can limit picture capture.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the quality of images, the effectiveness of nighttime surveillance, and the overall usability of the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR. The 20MP helps with detail, while the 940nm LEDs are key for remaining undetected by animals.
Performance & Functionality
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR generally performs its job adequately, especially considering its price point. Daytime image quality is good, providing clear and detailed pictures. However, nighttime performance is where the camera shows its limitations.
The infrared LEDs provide enough light for nighttime images, but the resulting photos can be grainy and lack detail. The trigger speed seems adequate for stationary animals, but it occasionally misses shots of faster-moving subjects. Improvements to trigger speed and nighttime image clarity would be welcome.
Overall, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR meets my basic expectations for a budget-friendly game camera. While it has its weaknesses, it provides decent performance for the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR features a compact and straightforward design. The materials used feel durable enough for typical outdoor use. The camera is lightweight, making it easy to carry and mount.
The menu system is user-friendly, with clearly labeled options that are easy to navigate. There’s minimal learning curve, even for those new to game cameras. The design prioritizes simplicity and functionality, which is a plus.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR appears to be reasonably durable. It has withstood rain and moderate temperature fluctuations without issue. With proper care, it should last for several seasons.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down to remove dirt and debris is usually sufficient. Replacing the batteries is also easy. The simplicity of design contributes to easy repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR comes with a basic mounting strap. This enables it to be attached to trees or posts. There are no other included accessories.
Customization options are limited to aftermarket accessories like security boxes and upgraded mounting systems. It’s compatible with standard SD cards for storage. While there are no specific brand-related accessories, compatibility with universal accessories offers some flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the most attractive aspects is its low cost. This makes it accessible to beginners or those on a tight budget.
- Easy to Use: The user-friendly menu system is simple to navigate. Setup is fast and straightforward.
- Good Daytime Image Quality: Captures clear and detailed daytime images. This is crucial for identifying animals and their behavior.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and mount in various locations. The lightweight design adds to its convenience.
- Decent Battery Life: Offers better battery life compared to older, cheaper models. Lithium batteries enhance longevity.
Cons
- Grainy Nighttime Images: Nighttime images can be grainy and lack detail. The quality can make identification difficult.
- Unspecified Trigger Speed & Detection Range: The lack of listed information limits usability knowledge. Missed shots can be common for faster-moving subjects.
Who Should Buy Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR?
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the most attractive aspects is its low cost. This makes it accessible to beginners or those on a tight budget.
- Easy to Use: The user-friendly menu system is simple to navigate. Setup is fast and straightforward.
- Good Daytime Image Quality: Captures clear and detailed daytime images. This is crucial for identifying animals and their behavior.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and mount in various locations. The lightweight design adds to its convenience.
- Decent Battery Life: Offers better battery life compared to older, cheaper models. Lithium batteries enhance longevity.
Cons
- Grainy Nighttime Images: Nighttime images can be grainy and lack detail. The quality can make identification difficult.
- Unspecified Trigger Speed & Detection Range: The lack of listed information limits usability knowledge. Missed shots can be common for faster-moving subjects.
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR is perfect for beginner hunters and casual wildlife observers on a budget. It is also suitable for property owners seeking basic security surveillance. This camera is ideal for those who need a simple and affordable solution.
Those who require high-quality nighttime images or have specific research needs should probably skip this product. Professional photographers or serious wildlife researchers might find its limitations too restrictive. Additional features such as a faster trigger speed and a longer detection range may be desired.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality lithium batteries to maximize battery life. A sturdy security box can protect the camera from theft or damage.
Conclusion on Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR
The Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR offers a solid entry-level option for those seeking an affordable and easy-to-use game camera. It excels in daytime image quality and simplicity of use. However, its nighttime performance and lack of detailed specifications leave room for improvement.
At $61.99, the price is definitely justified for what it offers. It presents an excellent value for beginners and casual users.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly game camera for basic surveillance purposes. If you need a simple and inexpensive way to monitor wildlife activity, the Wildgame Wraith 2.0 Game Camera 20 MP IR is a worthwhile option. Consider giving it a try, and see what you can discover!